Silverball Sunday Showdown: A Scorching Competition in Mesa

Another thrilling IFPA tournament, Silverball Sunday, took place on June 23, 2024, at the new location, Atomic Age Modern. With 29 players competing fiercely through five rounds, the event lasted three and a half hours, wrapping up just after 10:00 PM. Hosted by the dedicated Mark Farina Jr., this tournament was a highlight of the Arizona pinball scene. For more details on upcoming events, check out their website at Silverball Sunday.

A Blast from the Past: Atomic Age Modern

Atomic Age Modern, located at 140 W Main, Mesa, AZ, is a nostalgic wonderland perfect for pinball enthusiasts. The venue, filled with retro charm, takes you back in time with its mid-century decor and vibrant atmosphere. Patrons rave about the ambiance, calling it an “awesome spot” that perfectly complements the excitement of pinball. For more about this delightful venue, visit their website.

James Bond 007: The Ultimate Spy Showdown

Round 3 brought us an unforgettable game on the James Bond 007 (Pro) by Stern, released in September 2022. This pinball machine, themed around the iconic British spy, set the stage for a dramatic showdown. John Finnegan from Tucson showcased his sharpshooting skills, clinching first place. Jason Barre from Mesa put up a valiant fight, securing second, followed by the tournament organizer, Mark Farina Jr., and Phoenix’s own Jim Smith, who rounded out the top four.

Pinball Machines: A Galactic Gathering

The tournament featured 18 incredible pinball machines, each adding a unique flavor to the competition. Let’s highlight a few standout games:

• The Party Zone by Bally (January 1991): Designed by Dennis Nordman and art by Greg Freres, this game brings the fun with its vibrant, party-themed artwork and dynamic playfield. This pinball machine was actually the last Bally pinball ever produced before the company switched focus to video games
• John Wick (Pro) by Stern (May 2024): This newly released machine, inspired by the action-packed movie series, delivers intense gameplay and stunning visuals, making it a favorite among players.
• JAWS (Pro) by Stern (January 2024): Dive into the thrilling world of JAWS with this machine, offering a terrifyingly fun experience with its shark-infested waters and challenging shots.
• Foo Fighters (Premium/LE) by Stern (March 2023): Rock out with the Foo Fighters in this machine that combines high-energy music with fast-paced pinball action, designed by Jack Danger.
• Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (Pro) by Stern (June 2020): This Stern Pinball title was released in celebration of the franchise’s 35th anniversary. Join Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo, and Raphael in this action-packed game, designed by John Borg, featuring vibrant artwork and immersive gameplay.
• Strikes and Spares by Bally (June 1978): A classic designed by Greg Kmiec, this bowling-themed machine offers straightforward, fun gameplay that has stood the test of time.
• Black Knight by Williams (January 1980): Steve Ritchie’s masterpiece, this game introduced the revolutionary Magna-Save feature, making it a beloved classic in pinball history. This Williams game is considered a landmark title by pinball enthusiasts for introducing the Magna-Save feature, which allowed players to momentarily control a magnet to influence the trajectory of the ball.
• Gilligan’s Island by Bally (April 1991): Designed by Ward Pemberton and Ray Tanzer, this game brings the beloved TV show to life with its tropical theme and adventurous gameplay.

Battling Through the Ranks: Tournament Winners

In a field of 29 talented players, each participant had to bring their A-game to emerge victorious. The competition was fierce, but these players rose to the occasion, showcasing their pinball prowess:

1. Connor Kennedy, State Rank: 82nd, surprised everyone with a remarkable performance, earning him the top spot. Despite being ranked lower in the state, his skill and determination shone through.
2. John Finnegan, from Tucson, State Rank: 17th, lived up to his high ranking, proving why he’s one of the top players in Arizona with a solid second-place finish.
3. Robert Kennedy, from Mesa, AZ, State Rank: 64th, also exceeded expectations, securing third place and demonstrating his growing skill in the pinball scene.
4. Jason Barre, from Mesa, AZ, State Rank: 4th, consistently performs at a high level and did not disappoint, finishing in fourth place among tough competition.

IFPA Arizona Pinball Top 10 Standings

Wrapping Up the Silverball Sunday Excitement

A huge thank you to Mark Farina Jr. for organizing this fantastic event and to Atomic Age Modern for providing such a nostalgic and welcoming venue. Everyone’s efforts made this tournament a memorable experience. The intense competition on the James Bond 007 (Pro) was a definite highlight. Stay tuned for more pinball excitement and recaps!